Film Review #21

                I received my first taste of the Savannah Film Festival when I watched City of Ghosts. The 2002 drama was written and directed by Matt Dillon who also stars in the film. Other well-known actors include James Caan, Stellan Skarsgård, Natascha McElhone, and Gérard Depardieu. I have mixed feelings about this film. The acting is on par but the promising plot suffers from being overly long. The movie clocks in at 116 minutes. 16 of those minutes could have been chopped off if the film didn't irrelevantly focus on random characters. I tried my best to practice cultural relativism but the music is dissonant at times. I’ll get to all of this in good time. For now, let’s get to the plot!

                City of Ghosts focuses on a conman named Jimmy (Dillon) who is working in New York City. After being questioned by the FBI about being involved in a Ponzi scheme Jimmy heads to Thailand to find his mentor Marvin (Caan), who just so happened to flee the country before questions started getting raised. Through a series of connections he finds himself traveling to Cambodia to track down Marvin. When Jimmy finally arrives there he enters a world of poverty, uncertainty, and danger. The only person he can trust is a loyal cyclo driver named Sok (Kem Sereyvuth). A game of cat and mouse evolves between Jimmy and Marvin that keeps the former guessing. Along the way, shady characters pop up making the audience ponder whether Jimmy will meet death or barely escape with his life.

                Dillon is the focal point of the film and quite convincing as a confused criminal searching for his thieving partner in crime. When Caan does finally appear on the silver screen he is perfect as shadowy Marvin, a thief who knows much more than he will ever let on. If you give some people an inch they will take a mile. Caan’s character will take two miles! Stellan Skarsgård and Kem Sereyvuth deserve praise for both of their roles. They were strong supporting actors that helped us kind of-sort of sympathize with conman Jimmy. Gérard Depardieu is hilarious as a fuming Frenchman who only wants to be left alone to run his hotel. Natascha McElhone is a great actress but the romance between Dillon’s character and hers is rather flat- similar to the end of a summer tryst.  Adding this angle was close to pointless. Overall, my expectations were fulfilled. As I mentioned before, the script’s plot suffers more than the performances.

So.... What's the importance of our romance again?

                The music in this film was dissonant and at times overwhelming. There was no harmony. I don’t know who wrote the score but it seemed like all the music was similar and there was never a moment where the music was calming or pleasant. I’m sure on some level, the music did help layer this story but from my perspective it was very difficult. I can only remember being satisfied with the ending soundtrack. The shots in this film were pretty basic. A series of close-ups, wide shots, 2 shots, and various other viewpoints were taken. The director of photography certainly deserves praise for the aesthetic of the film. Cambodia was put on display in a beautiful yet humanizing fashion.

                I won’t lie to my audience. I’m not going to rave about this film. It’s not horrible… but it’s not great. It’s just somewhere in between. I suppose I would encourage people to see this film if they’d enjoy seeing what it’s like to shoot “on location.” In this sense, City of Ghosts has the same appeal as Slum Dog Millionaire or The Kite Runner. Just less complex and with a much poorer storyline. In the end, Dillon’s film is promising but never lives up to anything.

6 out of 10

Film Review #20

Never compromise. Not even in the face of Armageddon.

                After reading the graphic novel Watchmen a few years ago I finally sat down and watched the film adaptation. Zach Snyder directs a huge cast that includes Jackie Earle Haley, Patrick Wilson, Malin Akerman, Billy Crudup, Matthew Goode, and Jeffery Dean Morgan. Visually, this film is a masterpiece to watch. The special effects are absolutely flawless. The characters are incredibly memorable and display a great amount of depth. Simply put, Watchmen is dark and ever-engrossing.

                The plot of the film is riveting. The year is 1985 and masked crime fighting has been banned from the United States. Richard Nixon is president and the Cold War is looming over America like never before. The threat of nuclear war between the U.S. and the Soviet Union is rising. The only thing halting an attack is the all-powerful Dr. Manhattan; the only real superhero in the world whose powers are godlike. Outside of these events, the vigilante Rorschach is investigating the deaths of former masked crime fighters that belonged to the group the Watchmen. As the murder mystery evolves Rorschach inevitably encounters his former masked colleagues. Together the masked crime fighters quickly find out that the murders are connected to a plot that is bigger than all of them. The fate of the world will hang in the balance.

                Watchmen is packed with key roles. I will do my best to keep this segment short. Jackie Earle Haley plays the masked vigilante Rorschach. In my opinion, Haley’s performance is the highlight of the film. He perfectly conveys what Rorschach is; a hunted man, who is uncompromising, scarred, dedicated, and above all sincere. Patrick Wilson is perfect as Night Owl. The audience firmly believes that his character is weary, insecure, and conflicted with the state of the world. Billy Crudup should be applauded for his role as Dr. Manhattan. Crudup does a wonderful job of playing a character that is unable to empathize with the human race and larger than life; Dr. Manhattan is the only true superhero of the bunch and his powers are all-encompassing.  Malin Akerman is vital to the entire film because she is Dr. Manhattan’s significant other Silk Spectre. She is convincing as a girlfriend who is fed up with Dr. Manhattan’s inability to no longer indentify with the human race… or with her for that matter. And last but certainly not least is Matthew Goode as Adrian Veidt. Goode plays Veidt to a tee. He is the perfect blend of sophistication, attractiveness, and suspicion.  My expectations were more than fulfilled by every actor.

Snyder directs an ensemble cast

Narration is performed by Jackie Earle Haley throughout Watchmen. He provides the background for so much that is happening and is essential. I can’t imagine a better way to sum up what is occurring. Hayley’s voice enhances the dark tone of the film tenfold. Special effects, costume, and make-up are integral to this film. Without these three things this film would not be possible. Period! The music of the film is amazing and perfectly placed. 70s and 80s popular music is prevalent in the film and provides a great touch for enhancing the themes of the film. The film’s intro is a prime example.

If I could only give my audience one reason for going to see this movie I would say, “Go because this is a great movie. You will be left in awe at times.” Watchmen is not your run of the mill PG-13 comic book movie. It’s a dark and gritty R-rated tale of what could happen when everything goes wrong. The themes brought up are endless. Murder, war, love, sex, conspiracy, insecurity, friendship, and so much more are highlighted. Not to mention, visually the film is a true work of art.

8.5 out of 10

Film Review #19

                I’ll be honest with you guys: Will Ferrell is hit or miss with me. I loved him as Ron Burgundy in Anchor Man. I thought he was hilarious as Jackie Moon in Semi-Pro. Flicks like Land of the Lost, Bewitched, and Casa de Mi Padre haven’t done him any favors however. A few days ago I decided to roll the dice and watch Mr. Ferrell put his comedic skills to use in The Campaign. Jay Roach directs a well-known cast that includes Ferrell, Zach Galifianakis, Jason Sudeikis, Katherine LaNasa, Dylan McDermott, John Lithgow, and Dan Aykroyd. After viewing this comedy I have to admit it’s a winner.

                The plot of the film is humorous and perfect to see if you’re sick of watching those negative presidential campaign ads. Congressman Cam Brady (Ferrell) is running unopposed in his district for the fifth consecutive time.  His bid for a fifth appointment appears to be in the bag until his philandering ways are spotlighted. After damaging his image irrevocably, the wealthy Motch brothers (Lithgow & Aykroyd) decide it is time for the 14^th District of North Carolina to have a new representative. Naïve Marty Huggins (Galifianakis) is chosen. In the end, only one man can be declared the winner.  Fully realizing this, Huggins and Brady play a hilarious game of one-upmanship.

                Will Ferrell is perfect as Cam Brady- an unethical, hypersexual, alcohol-fueled politician. His star shines brightest in the film. Galifianakis’ role is memorable too. He is believable as a gullible family man who just wants to clean up the town. However, his “goody two shoes” demeanor borders annoyance sometimes; not to mention the actor’s dialect. Sudeikis and McDermott deserve praise for their roles as opposing campaign managers. Both men are convincing. In order for his candidate to win McDermott appears sociopathic at times! Lithgow and Aykroyd are absolutely diabolical. You will really believe that these two characters will sink to any depth just to make a quick buck. The entire cast filled my expectations. Together, they pack a powerful comedic punch!

The Diabolical Motch Brothers

                A limited amount of special effects were used in The Campaign. How else are we going to allow Ferrell to punch a baby and a dog? More than anything the film relies on offensive and often crude humor. With that said, a variety of camera angles are shown that manage to convey the right tones at the right time. Music is used in a similar way. With that said, all of these techniques combined to enhance themes of ignorant bliss, double-crossing, two-timing, cold calculating, and outrageous antics.

Fun For Everyone To See

                If I can only give my audience one reason to go see this film I would say go because you will be in stitches. The Campaign offers more than a few simple laughs. Seeing Ferrell and Galifianakis face off is a guilty pleasure. You will wish you could view each man’s shenanigans in person. As I mentioned before, The Campaign is a grand reprieve from the mudslinging that is currently going on. Why not slip out of reality for a little bit and have a laugh? It worked for me.

7.5 out of 10

Film Review #18

           After hearing about the success of Magic Mike I had to see what the fuss was about. I have to admit Magic Mike is indeed magic. I’m not surprised that this $7 million dollar film grossed over $150 million at the box office. The acting is solid, the story progresses smoothly, and you’re constantly becoming more and more engrossed. Towards the end of the film I was dying to know what was going to happen to the main characters. Steven Soderbergh directs a talented cast that includes Channing Tatum, Alex Pettyfer, Matthew McConaughey, Cody Horn, Matt Bomer, Olivia Munn, and Joe Manganiello.

          The film focuses on the entrepreneurial Michael Lane (Tatum). At age 30, Michael has dreams of owning his own business and leaving behind his numerous jobs. Until that happens, Mike has no choice but to keep on trucking. One of his jobs includes being a male stripper at the Tampa club Xquisite. When the sun goes down and the stage lights come on he becomes “Magic Mike.” Through pure happenstance Mike meets and befriends 19-year old Adam (Pettyfer). The two quickly become close as Mike introduces Adam to the world of stripping. Adam reaches success quickly with the help of Mike and the rest of the Xquisite dancers. As the film evolves the audience is given an inside glimpse to the good and bad of prosperity. Regardless of the occupation context the character’s problems and insecurities are incredibly relatable.

          Channing Tatum character is engrossing. You are really able to feel Mike’s struggle. He is trying his best to start a new path but all the odds seem to be against him. Alex Pettyfer portrays Adam’s reckless youth perfectly. It’s very fun to see Adam change from an insecure boy to a desirable sexpot.  His lessons in overindulgence are interestingly shown as well. Matthew McConaughey may deserve the most praise in Magic Mike. He is particularly convincing as the eccentric Dallas, the owner of Xquisite and Mike’s boss. In thinking back to the film, I have to say, his lines are quite memorable. The rest of supporting cast deserves praise too. I didn’t feel like anyone was miscast.

One of the best scenes in the film

          A timeline of sorts was used in Magic Mike to help the audience understand that the events of the film took place in a mere 3 months. Countless close-ups and medium shots were used to bring to light and define the actors’ physiques. A series of two-shots and close-ups was also used to create a more inviting and warm tone for the dramatic moments of the film. Music is a big part of the film. Countless songs from American pop culture can be heard in the film. I thought the music was appropriate because it was able to convey the raunchiness that often occurred.

          Unquestionably, I would suggest Magic Mike to all of my readers. My decisive factor for doing so is simple. You are going to be enthralled by the depth of the characters as the story unfolds. Soderbergh did an amazing job with this script. All I have to say is, if there is a sequel I will definitely be in line to watch.

8.5 out of 10

Film Review #17

Are you a patriot or a vampire?

          With great apprehension I sat down to watch Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Slayer. I wasn’t quite sure how I felt about the 16^th President of the United States hunting down vampires. Much to my chagrin I was slowly drawn in by the film’s charm. Timur Bekmambetov is the director. His most notable film for American audiences is probably Wanted. The cast is a group of talented but relatively unknown actors. Benjamin Walker stars as Abraham Lincoln. His supporting cast includes Dominic Cooper, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Anthony Mackie, Jimmi Simpson, Rufus Sewell, and Marton Csokas.

          The movie is a fictional account of the life of Abraham Lincoln (Walker). As a boy his mother is killed by a vampire named Jack Barts (Csokas). Abraham grows up knowing who his mother’s killer is and one day decides to strike. Abraham’s attempt to kill Jack is a failure. Young Abraham would be dead if it were not for Henry Sturges (Cooper) seeing potential. Henry inevitably trains Abraham to kill vampires. After a period of slaying countless vampires Lincoln decides that he wants a real life with personal attachment. He retires from assassinating vampires and his life progresses. It would seem that Lincoln’s life as a vampire slayer was over. Not quite! While serving as President of the U.S. during the Civil War, Abraham’s past life comes back to revisit him. Facing the extinction of human America President Lincoln decides to pick up his axe and slay once more.

          I thought Benjamin Walker did a great job of playing Abraham Lincoln. During the beginning I felt his character was rather ordinary but I suppose that was the point. After all, the actual Abraham Lincoln struggled with defeat and failure for quite some time. I’ve failed at various things in my youth and have been left questioning myself. Dominic Cooper is charismatic as Henry Sturges, Lincoln’s mentor and middleman. You really feel his presence when he is on screen. Marton Csokas is utterly convincing as a plantation owner and murderous vampire.  Rufus Sewell is an integral part of the film as the story unfolds and Lincoln ages into his fifties. Sewell is perfect for playing the mastermind vampire who is behind the Confederate’s flawless victories. Anthony Mackie and Jimmi Simpson deserve praise for their roles as well. Overall, the cast is an extremely talented one and my expectations were fulfilled.

Walker & Cooper

          With a title like Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Slayer you can imagine that special effects are essential. Thanks to Tim Burton producing the film the vampires as well as the combat choreography were very well done. I really enjoyed seeing Lincoln swing his ax. The fact that this film is set in the 1800s required skilled set design. These ingredients all combined to make the key scenes in the film very believable. I never felt like I was watching something cheap or too over-the-top. The music used in the film is fantastic. It sets the mood perfectly. The score matches up great with Lincoln’s narration in the film.

          I would recommend this film to my readers because it’s well balanced. The film does not try to be something that it is not. The director carefully balanced horror, drama, and fantasy into something cohesive. Add to this an exceptional cast from the bottom-up and you have yourself an entertaining piece of cinema. As long as you’re not going into this film expecting gold you will probably enjoy it for what it is.

6.5 out of 10

Film Review #16

        Today I decided to watch a movie that I have been avoiding for quite some time. I took it upon myself to finally view Fast Five. The film was directed by Justin Lin and grossed more than $600 million dollars worldwide. Vin Diesel and Paul Walker star alongside a huge supporting cast. Some of the names include Jordana Brewster, Joaquim de Almeida, Tyrese Gibson, Chris "Ludacris" Bridges, Matt Schulze, Sung Kang, and Dwayne Johnson. Let me make this clear: I have disliked the majority of the films in this franchise. But… I am willing to see any movie where Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson plays a complete badass. With that said, I’ll do my best to be unbiased.

Sorry Vin. You are nowhere near as tall or badass as Johnson.

The plot of the film is multifaceted. After helping Dominic Toretto (Diesel) break out of prison Mia Toretto (Brewster) and Brian O'Conner (Walker) go “on the lam” with him. Eventually they all arrive in Brazil where they accept a “job” stealing cars to make some fast cash. The job goes wrong but the trio manages to escape- and with one of the stolen cars no less. Eventually they discover a microchip in the car. The chip contains details on Hernan Reyes’ illegal operations. Reyes (de Almeida) is a wealthy but shady businessman who also happens to be a drug trafficker. When he finds out that they have his chip and are aware of the location of $100,000,000 he wants them eliminated. To make things worse the trio have Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) agent Luke Hobbs (Johnson) chasing them. Under duress the trio hatches a plan to steal Reyes' $100 million dollar fortune and evade the resourceful Hobbs. This sets the stage for a bevy of action-packed encounters and a climactic ending!

Vin Diesel and Paul Walker play close friends in the film and their chemistry seems as such. Between the high adrenaline action sequences they share insecurities and hope for a better future. While the dialogue between them is less than stimulating both actors do their best with what the writers gave them. Joaquim de Almeida plays his part to a T. He’s totally convincing in his role as a ruthless drug dealer who wants any threats crushed immediately. Speaking of convincing Dwayne Johnson is as well. He was smart, intimidating, powerful, and above all scene stealing. I thought his performance should be applauded. Although, I don’t see Vin Diesel beating him up in a fight… sorry I had to add that last part. My expectations were definitely met for this film and the actors’ portrayals.

The genre of this film really has an effect on the film techniques used. Special effects and stunts are a necessity for Fast Five. The action sequences are first rate; they’re certainly on par with filmmakers like Jerry Bruckheimer and Michael Bay. It’s just a pity they couldn’t use their big budget to give more depth to the actors. Establishing shots are a big part of this film. Rio de Janeiro is a jewel and many times we are treated to breathtaking aerial views. The music is modern, lively, and speaks to an international audience. The song “Danza Kuduro” by Don Omar & Lucenzo is a great example. It sums up what Fast Five is… a fast-paced carnival selling sexuality, violence, and commercialism. With that said, the music is well placed and very appropriate.

            My decisive factor for going to see Fast Five is simple. It’s a badass movie with one badass hombre named Dwayne Johnson. I thought he was the heart and soul of the film. He adds depth to a script that suffers from cheesy one-liners and a world where feminism never existed. People who are going to see this movie are not expecting Shakespeare. It’s like a Die Hard film on some levels. Audiences don’t always want caviar. Sometimes a deliciously greasy cheeseburger is satisfying and what we want. This is that cheeseburger.

8 out of 10

Film Review #15

Great casting choices for Dark Shadows

         A few days ago I sat back and decided to view Tim Burton’s Dark Shadows. I have to admit I was impressed. I was expecting a disaster similar to Burton’s Charlie & the Chocolate Factory. Thankfully this was not the case. I watched a horror comedy that was smart, hilarious, and above all interesting. The flick stars Johnny Depp, Michelle Pfeiffer, Helena Bonham Carter, Eva Green, and Jackie Earle Hayley.

            In my opinion, the plot of the film is appealing. Barnabas Collins (Depp) is a 200 year old vampire that has been asleep since the 18^th Century. When he is released from his chains it is 1972 and much has changed in the fishing port of Collinsport, Maine. Not thinking twice about it Barnabas returns to his old home. He quickly realizes that his descendents are quite dysfunctional. Barnabas and his relatives have been cursed for his actions as a young man. During the 1760s Barnabas seduced and later rejected the family maid of the manor- Angelique Bouchard (Green). Little did he realize, Angelique was a witch and his refusal to love her would cost him everything he cared for. After seeing the Collins name in shambles the recently awakened Barnabas decides that he will rejuvenate their reputation and family business. There is only one little problem however. Angelique has been living in Collinsport for centuries and she has made it her life’s cause to see that the Collins suffer for her pain. This sets the stage for a memorable reunion and a volatile ending.

Depp is a delight

           Depp is too believable in his role as Barnabas Collins- even with that horribly distracting haircut. His manner of speech and line delivery is perfect. Don’t believe me? Perhaps this quote will make you reconsider: “Fifteen, and no husband? You must put those child-bearing hips to good use, lest your womb shrivel up and die.” Eva Green as Angelique is quite convincing too. You really believe that her character is heartbroken and that this drives her to the point of obsession. Michelle Pfeiffer is fun to watch in the film. While her role is not particularly enticing she certainly has presence. Helena Bonham Carter is scene stealing as the alcoholic Dr. Julia Hoffman. She and Depp have some very memorable scenes together. Overall, my expectations were more than fulfilled. I thought this film was going to be painful to endure but it was the complete opposite.

          Like any other Tim Burton film the visuals you see are amazing. His sense of style is so well conveyed in this film. It was fun to see Burton’s gothic yet quirky style on screen. I had no complaints with his chosen aesthetics. The music provided by Danny Elfman is perfect and well placed. The score is creepy, menacing, and extraordinarily sad at times. A whole range of emotions can be felt. I hope the YouTube link that I’m providing below proves this.

           I could list a few different reasons for my readers to go see Dark Shadows. If I can only give one decisive factor to see this film I’d say go for a fun ride. While this film is not going to change your life it is entertaining. If you’re a fan of comedy definitely watch it. The balance scale tips in favor of comedy rather than horror. I hope you enjoy the film as much as I did. That’s all folks!

7 out of 10